Using virtual reality to improve walking in stroke survivors
Virtual Reality Augmented Gait Adaptation in Stroke Survivors
This study is testing if using virtual reality during treadmill exercises can help stroke survivors walk more evenly and improve their natural walking.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Nebraska Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Omaha, Nebraska) |
| Trial ID | NCT03787693 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to address walking asymmetry in stroke survivors by utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology during gait training. Participants will be recruited based on their level of gait asymmetry and will engage in a split-belt treadmill exercise while receiving augmented visual feedback through VR. The study will assess the relationship between the effectiveness of VR in improving gait symmetry and the participants' baseline asymmetry levels. Additionally, the transfer of learned adaptations from the treadmill to natural walking will be evaluated.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 21 years old who have experienced a single, unilateral stroke at least three months prior and can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with recurrent strokes, significant visual impairments, or other conditions affecting walking ability may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance walking ability and quality of life for stroke survivors with gait asymmetry.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using virtual reality for gait rehabilitation, suggesting that this approach may be effective for stroke survivors.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * adults \> 21 years * diagnosed with supratentorial ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke * single, unilateral stroke * stroke incident \> 3 months duration. * ability to stand unsupported without an assistive device * walk 10m without therapist assistance, * ability to follow instructions (Folstein Mini-Mental exam score ≥ 24) Exclusion Criteria: * recurrent stroke * hip fracture * myocardial infarction * \< 20/40 corrected vision * any condition that can affect walking ability to complete the experiment successfully (e.g. neglect, Parkinson's disease, vestibulopathy, peripheral nerve pathology).
Where this trial is running
Omaha, Nebraska
- University of Nebraska - Omaha, Biomechanics Research Building — Omaha, Nebraska, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mukul Mukherjee, PhD — University of Nebraska
- Study coordinator: Mukul Mukherjee, PhD
- Email: mmukherjee@unomaha.edu
- Phone: 402-554-3351
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.